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University of São Paulo project shows how organic waste can be converted into energy, fuel, and fertilizers through a system based on the circular economy
The University of São Paulo (USP), through the Institute of Energy and Environment (IEE), has implemented a project focused on urban waste management. Thus, the institution developed a plant capable of transforming organic waste into electricity, biomethane, and fertilizers, within a model based on the circular economy.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. In this way, the material that was previously discarded is now used as input for energy generation and agricultural products.
Project began operating in 2021 and was expanded with a biomethane unit
Initially, the plant began partial operation in 2021. Subsequently, the project was expanded with the implementation of the biomethane production unit.
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Since then, waste from the University City and partner institutions has been processed by the system.
According to the Institute of Energy and Environment of USP, the model includes different processing stages. Among them are:
- Sorting of organic waste;
- Digestion of organic matter;
- Biogas production;
- Biofertilizer generation;
- Energy utilization of waste.
Thus, the process was structured so that practically all the material received can be reused within the production chain itself.
Circular economy transforms waste into energy resources
According to the proposal developed by USP, the traditional logic of disposal is replaced by a system of reuse.
In this context, waste is no longer considered just an environmental liability. Instead, it becomes a source of economic and energy value.
According to the concept presented by the project, the goal is to transform materials that would be discarded into resources capable of generating energy and other useful products.
Consequently, the model reinforces the principles of the circular economy, in which waste returns to the production cycle instead of going to landfills.
Each ton of waste can generate biogas and agricultural fertilizer
According to information presented by the University of São Paulo project, each ton of organic waste can produce approximately 120 cubic meters of biogas.
Additionally, during the process, digestate is also generated, a material that has potential for agricultural use as a fertilizer.
After that, the biogas can be converted into different forms of energy, including:
- Electric energy;
- Heat;
- Biomethane.
In turn, biomethane can be used as fuel and, according to the project, is capable of replacing gasoline in vehicles.
Model could serve as a reference for waste management in Brazil
Currently, the experience conducted by USP, through the Institute of Energy and Environment, demonstrates an alternative for the utilization of organic waste within an integrated system.
Since the start of partial operation in 2021, until the expansion with the biomethane unit, the project has come to encompass sorting, biodigestion, biogas generation, fertilizer production, and energy utilization in a single structure.
Thus, the initiative highlights how the circular economy can transform waste into useful resources. At the same time, the project reinforces the potential of sustainable urban waste management, converting what was previously discarded into electric energy, biomethane, and fertilizers.
